Name: Banana Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups bread (such as french or brioche, cubed; slightly stale or hard bread is perfect); 1 cup bananas (sliced; additional bananas can be used for garnish if desired); 1/4 cup butter (melted and cooled); 3 large eggs (lightly beaten); 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsps pure vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp milk

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm dessert, and for me, that warmth often comes in the form of Banana Bread Pudding. It evokes memories of family gatherings, where I would sneak a slice before it even made it to the table. The sweet aroma of ripening bananas mingling with the scent of fresh bread in the oven is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. This dish is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels like a hug. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday morning or a festive dinner party, Banana Bread Pudding has a way of making any occasion feel special. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s house. I was instantly hooked! The rich custard soaking into the bread chunks, combined with the delightful texture of the bananas, creates a culinary experience that’s hard to resist. Every bite is a perfect blend of creamy and chewy, and I can’t help but feel nostalgic every time I make it. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you don’t make it more often.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

The Best Thing About This Banana Bread Pudding

It’s a Family Favorite

There’s a special charm in recipes that have been passed down through generations. My grandmother used to make Banana Bread Pudding during holiday gatherings, and it was always the star of the show. Watching her prepare it, with her gentle hands breaking the stale bread and mixing in the ingredients, is a cherished memory. This dish has a way of bringing families together and creating lasting memories.

Easy to Make

One of the best parts about Banana Bread Pudding is how simple it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a master chef to create this delicious dessert. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that will impress your guests and warm your heart.

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients used in Banana Bread Pudding are incredibly adaptable. You can experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, to give it a unique twist. Adding spices like nutmeg or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile and make it your own.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself on a weeknight, Banana Bread Pudding fits the bill. It can be served warm or cold, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, making it versatile enough for any occasion.

Delicious Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), Banana Bread Pudding tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld beautifully, and you can easily reheat it for a quick dessert that feels like a treat. It’s the kind of dish that keeps on giving!

Easy to Customize

Feeling adventurous? Try adding different fruits or nuts into your Banana Bread Pudding for a personal touch. From walnuts to blueberries, the possibilities are endless. Customize it to suit your taste and get creative!

Essential Ingredients for Banana Bread Pudding

The beauty of Banana Bread Pudding lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together harmoniously. It’s a classic comfort food that thrives on simplicity. The key players include robust bread, ripe bananas, and a creamy custard mixture that binds everything together. Each ingredient plays its role, creating a delightful texture and flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Bread: 4 cups of cubed bread, such as French or brioche, works best. Slightly stale or hard bread is perfect for absorbing the custard.
Bananas: 1 cup of sliced bananas adds natural sweetness and moisture. Additional bananas can be used for garnish if desired.
Butter: 1/4 cup of melted and cooled butter contributes richness and flavor.
Eggs: 3 large eggs, lightly beaten, help to set the pudding as it bakes.
Milk: 2 cups of whole milk create a creamy custard base.
Sugar: 1/2 cup of granulated sugar enhances the sweetness.
Vanilla: 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract infuses a warm, comforting aroma.
Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds a subtle spice.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of salt balances the sweetness.
Powdered Sugar: For garnish, use 1 cup of powdered sugar mixed with a bit of milk and vanilla for a delicious glaze.

Making Banana Bread Pudding

Creating Banana Bread Pudding is a delightful process that combines a few simple steps, resulting in a warm, satisfying dessert. Let’s dive into the making of this delicious dish together. Follow these steps closely to achieve a perfectly baked pudding that will have your taste buds dancing.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your Banana Bread Pudding will bake evenly and thoroughly, giving it a beautiful golden color.
Prepare a greased 2-quart baking dish by lightly coating it with cooking spray or a layer of butter. This will prevent the pudding from sticking and make for an easy cleanup.
Place 4 cups of cubed bread and 1 cup of sliced bananas into the baking dish, spreading them evenly. The bread should be slightly stale to absorb the custard well.
In a medium bowl, combine 3 lightly beaten eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of melted and cooled butter, 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until fully combined to create a smooth custard base.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread and bananas in the baking dish. Gently stir to coat the bread with the custard, ensuring every piece is soaked.
Bake the pudding uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If desired, prepare a simple glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of milk. Stir until smooth and drizzle over the baked pudding for added sweetness and decoration.
Garnish with additional banana slices and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of your homemade Banana Bread Pudding!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Stale Bread: Using slightly stale or hard bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard better, enhancing the overall texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the custard with the bread, gently stir to ensure the bread is coated without breaking it up too much.
Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the pudding as it bakes. If it starts to brown too much, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the center; it should come out clean when the pudding is ready.

Tips and Variations

There are so many ways to enjoy Banana Bread Pudding beyond the basic recipe. Here are some tips and variations to make it even more delightful!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick dessert.
Freezing: You can freeze Banana Bread Pudding for up to two months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Try Different Breads: Experiment with various types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for a unique flavor.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a splash of coffee to the custard for extra depth.

Best Served With

Banana Bread Pudding

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy finish.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm pudding.
Fruit Garnish: Serve with extra banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance the presentation.
Seasonal Flavors: In the fall, consider adding spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Brunch Delight: This dish is perfect for brunch parties, making it a wonderful centerpiece.
Leftover Treats: Reheat any leftovers in the morning for a delicious breakfast treat.

FAQ

Absolutely! Banana Bread Pudding can be made ahead of time. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply pop it in the oven. It may take a few extra minutes to bake if it’s cold from the fridge, so just keep an eye on it.

The key to knowing when your Banana Bread Pudding is done is to look for a golden brown top and a set custard. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean to ensure it’s fully cooked.

For an extra treat, serve Banana Bread Pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce also make excellent toppings to enhance the deliciousness!

Yes, you can freeze Banana Bread Pudding! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then slice and wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Banana Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt treat that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite for many, and I encourage you to give it a try. Whether for a family gathering or a quiet night in, you won’t regret indulging in this scrumptious pudding!